The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion staple, they can be an excellent investment. If you buy a classic bag and take care of it, it will appreciate in value over time.

We've compiled a list to assist you in making a decision. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, bags became fashionable as well as a useful tool for carrying money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in design and function, to what we recognize today as designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s that bags changed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation for stunning, striking bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of branded bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes today.

In WWII purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of bags required to carry war supplies. After the war the young were granted more freedom and the rules for what a woman could carry around relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular since women were in a position to explore their own fashion.

The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s using leather, vinyl, chainmail, and chains. Many of these new styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the agenda and became a key element of the fashion industry. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, like the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and modern styles. The YSL Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit during the decade and can still be seen on the arm of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales soar. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to replicate their fashion. When a new fashion becomes an 'It bag', it could take weeks, or even months, to get your hands on one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past can last for decades, unlike many other fashion trends that change with a breakneck pace. These timeless, well-loved bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to be without a designer bag or want to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. Originally launched in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to hide the early stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is considered one of the most recognizable designer bags of all time.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being spotted by influencers and celebrities, is another recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity with young people.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However the brand has since moved away from its signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined design of the aughts-inspired bag trend, and Designer Handbags and Purses was seen on a variety of runway looks in the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is famous for its ready-to-wear clothing with couture details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most recognizable model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

If you prefer a more minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect balance of style and practicality thanks to its sleek design and designer handbags and Purses minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is an accessory that shows you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made with top-quality materials and feature distinct design.

There are numerous designer names who make their mark through beautiful bags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between function and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made their mark in the market for designer handbags popular bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is renowned for its unique design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags by the brand offer modern interpretations of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was established in 1959. The company is known for its feminine women's wear and ultra-popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Moreover other brands have developed their own style of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018 has gained a lot of attention for its modern and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags feature an unique blend of class and whimsy, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags offered by the company are a mix of contemporary and classic designs and comes with various colors and sizes. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are increasingly popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer handbags sale bag can be an elegant addition to your closet. The season's best designer bags come in a range of shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This edit includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as some staples that have been sought-after for years to come.

According to a resale information report from The RealReal, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by critics and fans.

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand, but with twists. The strap is tied in knots to add some interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Another bag worth considering is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that combines function with geometric design. It is described as "a work of art" by its designer the bag's geometric design reportedly requires 75 separate leather parts and a whole lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer handbags cheap brand, has also seen its products featured on front row of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

Many stars have been seen sporting bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag could be your next designer handbag. It is a boxy, feminine accessory.

If you're looking for a new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect choice to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags and purses handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer handbags in sale backpacks.